Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has attributed persistent cases of banditry and cattle theft in parts of northern Kenya to years of marginalisation and limited development.
Murkomen said the lack of adequate infrastructure and essential services has contributed to insecurity in areas that have struggled with development for many years.
He said the security situation has improved significantly over the past four years, although isolated incidents of bandit attacks and livestock theft are still being reported in some areas.
Murkomen spoke after meeting the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security at Parliament Buildings, where he discussed security concerns affecting Samburu, Meru and Isiolo counties.
He said the government was pursuing development programmes alongside security operations as part of efforts to address the challenges facing the three counties.
According to Murkomen, investment is being directed towards key sectors, including roads, water, schools, healthcare and communication networks.
He said improving access to these services would help tackle some of the conditions that have contributed to insecurity in the affected communities.
At the same time,he added that security agencies were stepping up efforts to deal with criminal activity.
He said intelligence-based operations were being intensified to trace and recover livestock taken during raids, seize illegal guns and arrest people suspected of involvement in banditry and cattle rustling.
The Interior Ministry is also increasing the number of security personnel in affected areas through the deployment of National Police Reservists.
Murkomen said additional security facilities were being built to improve the government's ability to respond to incidents and protect communities in areas prone to attacks.
He added that peacebuilding efforts were being strengthened to help communities resolve conflicts and reduce tensions that have contributed to cycles of violence.
The CS said addressing insecurity requires more than police operations, with development, security and peace initiatives working together to achieve lasting stability.
The government is set to continue implementing projects while maintaining security operations in the affected counties.
